MLS unveil adidas NATIVO as 2018 official match ball

Major League Soccer and adidas unveiled the new NATIVO ball on Friday at the 2018 MLS SuperDraft in Philadelphia, which will be the official match ball for the 2018 MLS season.

The fourth ball in the NATIVO series, the updated design includes a new panel design the use of sustainable materials. Using a unique six mono-panel configuration, the ball is constructed using thermobonding technology, designed to provide a smooth, even performance and zero water uptake. The new backing material includes 40 percent sustainable materials made from sugar cane and recycled paper, and will improve ball flight and surface glide.

The design of the NATIVO skin features pixelated patchwork details in bright blue and red, representing the countries of the US and Canada, and motifs from North American history.

“Soccer is a global sport that transcends beyond borders,” said Ernesto Bruce, senior director for adidas Soccer in a statement. “The new design of the 2018 MLS Official Match Ball is our way of embracing and celebrating unity on the pitch, while offering a superior performance ball for all levels of athletes across North America.”

The new NATIVO 2018 MLS match ball is now available for purchase on MLSStore.com